Andorra's Espot Hopes for Vatican Nod on Abortion Decriminalization Before Term Ends

Andorran Head of Government Xavier Espot expressed hope Thursday of securing consensus—or at least acquiescence—from the Vatican on abortion decriminalization before the current legislative term ends in eight months, noting that a draft text is already prepared and specific proposals have been sent to the Holy See.

Speaking at the traditional AINA lunch, Espot described ongoing negotiations as demanding careful interpretation of silences, given the low likelihood of explicit approval from the Santa Seu. "We have been sending concrete proposals to the Vatican for some time, but we still do not have a response," he said, stressing the need for balance to avoid straining ties through the Bishopric of Urgell. He differentiated decriminalization from legalization, calling it a key commitment from his party's election platform, and voiced confidence in fulfilling promises before his mandate concludes.

The comments follow Wednesday's General Council session, where Minister for Institutional Relations, Education and Universities Ladislau Baró explained setbacks linked to changes in the papacy and the episcopal co-prince. Baró noted positive signals in February 2025 that later faded, urging caution to preserve the coprincipality's institutional model. He made no mention of bringing the issue to a parliamentary vote, prioritizing unconditional equilibrium with the Vatican.

Opposition groups had pushed amendments to Penal Code revisions, seeking to lift penalties for abortions in cases of maternal or fetal health risks, rape, or incest up to 22 weeks. The Social Democratic Party's Susanna Vela highlighted women's rights, travel burdens abroad, and the absence of prosecutions under current law. Comú de l'Esquerra-Concòrdia's Núria Segués referenced UN and WHO critiques, while Demòcrates per Andorra's Maria Martisella expressed her group's readiness to vote on the matter before term's end, and Andorra Endavant's Carine Montaner emphasized securing Vatican and French co-prince support.

The amendments failed. Sources close to the talks suggest a response from the Vatican could enable a Council vote, potentially aligning with public sentiment, though no timeline has been confirmed. The government continues discreet dialogue.